It’s here.

The state’s Department of Health and Human Services is confirming that the flu has been found in Maine for the first time this season. Two adults, one in Washington County and the other in Piscataquis County, were confirmed to be infected with influenza A through testing at a Bangor lab.

Several more people in other areas of the state initially tested positive at the Bureau of Health’s laboratory, the department said in an advisory. Confirming tests are pending.

Just in time to help combat the outbreak: Auburn is sponsoring a flu clinic next week for adults aged 65 and older who are in fair or poor health, and other adults who required regular medical care during the past year for certain illnesses.

The clinic will be Wednesday at Auburn Hall. People should call the Health Department at 333-6600 to schedule an appointment and get more information about who qualifies for the shots.

“Maine typically first sees its first cases of influenza in November, with sporadic activity leading to outbreaks in December or January,” said Dr. Dora Anne Mills, director of the Bureau of Health. She noted that other states are also now reporting sporadic influenza activity.

“The good news is that over the past three weeks, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services’ Bureau of Health has distributed almost 140,000 influenza vaccine doses to over 1,000 physicians, nursing homes, home health agencies and other health care providers across Maine. Another 22,000 doses are being distributed this week and next,” Mills said.

“Overall, there should be enough vaccine for most Mainers who are in a high-risk group, so if you are 65 or over, or younger with a chronic disease or pregnant, you should call your health-care provider to see if they have vaccine.”

Vaccination is considered the best defense against the flu, with good hygiene a close second.

“With holiday gatherings over the coming weeks, it is especially important to follow the three basic steps of washing your hands frequently, muffling coughs and sneezes, and staying home if you are ill,” said Mills. “This is especially important if you have fever or if you are visiting someone in a high-risk group.”